Idaho GemvsEl Dorado

Idaho Gem and El Dorado are popular dual purpose hops. Below you'll find a comparison of alpha and beta acids, aroma profiles and oil composition.

Idaho Gem

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

11–14%

Beta acid

5–7%

Total oil

1.3–2.3 mL

United States

El Dorado

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

13–17%

Beta acid

6.4–8%

Total oil

2.5–3.3 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Idaho Gem

  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick El Dorado

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Stone fruit

Only in Idaho Gem

PineappleCherryCandiedHerbalSpicyMintCitrusRedberryMojitoSweet

Only in El Dorado

FruityTropicalPearWatermelonCandy

Property

PropertyIdaho GemEl Dorado
Alpha acid11–14%13–17%
Beta acid5–7%6.4–8%
Co-humulone40–45%28–33%
Total oil1.3–2.3 mL2.5–3.3 mL
Myrcene-55–60%
Humulene-10–15%
Caryophyllene-6–8%
Farnesene-0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeDual purposeDual purpose

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